Dear Scottish Mission Members, Christian greetings to you all.
We all understand the very challenging times that we are living in as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. The country is still in a lockdown situation and we are all continually urged to stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.
Our prayers are very much with all those affected and having to deal with symptoms and effects of the virus. This includes some of our own members. In Scotland the latest information, countrywide, is that as of 8th April there are currently 4,565 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Scotland although some estimates show that the actual number of cases may be much higher. Sadly the number of fatalities is still growing at this time. As such it is becoming clear that we are all in this for the long haul.
Each week the country stops to applaud our frontline workers, and I know that this also includes some of our very own members. Others are helping as NHS volunteers or through other means of supporting those in need in the surrounding communities. Blessings to you all.
Although our church buildings must remain closed, the spread of the gospel message is very much alive. I would like to thank all our pastors, elders and other local lay preachers who have taken to the airwaves in sending out so many timely internet based messages. All church districts have been benefitting from Prayer Meetings, Sabbath School lessons and Sermons creatively produced. Adventist Media Scotland is the Scottish Mission Youtube page, which is now already 5 years old, and recent statistics sent in by Administrator Charles Lethbridge, have just been sent to me, of well over 2000 YouTube total views and nearly 20,000 minutes of video watched. This indicates a steep increase since the pandemic started. This channel can be viewed HERE. These numbers will grow steadily and the next opportunity we will all have to come together will be in the Scottish Mission Friday evening Facebook and Youtube live Prayer Meeting at 8pm.
Brothers and Sisters, be assured that God is with us and that He will never leave us or forsake us. He walks alongside us in all situations of life. Thank you also for continuing to put God first in your lives and in supporting the ongoing spread of the gospel through online giving. I believe this is the heart of our Christian faith and practice. Thank you everyone.
I would like to share at this time a devotional message, as we approach the Easter weekend. As stated in the recording we lift up Jesus at Easter and all year round, as we recognise the importance of the life, death and resurrection of our Saviour to our salvation. We affirm that “He is Risen” and is coming back soon.
God Bless each and everyone. Stay safe, stay strong and together we put our faith in the risen Lord.
The video message from Pastor Paul can be seen HERE.
Pastor Paul Tompkins
Scottish Mission President
